Authors: J.T. McGinty, Hatch; C. Chaves, Hatch; P. Navarra, ArcelorMittal Mines Canada
39th Ironmaking and Raw Materials Seminar and 10th Brazilian Symposium on Iron Ore, November 23, 2009
Abstract
A dynamic computer simulation model was developed for the purpose of determining the capital investments and operational changes that would be required in port and rail operations to support phased iron ore production increases. The model considered the associated logistics involved with handling, storing, and transporting iron ore concentrate, pellets, and various raw materials. The discrete-event dynamic simulation model of port and rail operations was developed using a general-purpose simulation software package, Arena, and validated against a historical period of one year. The validation process established (1) confidence that the model properly replicated the real operation, (2) a baseline from which to compare future scenarios, and (3) confidence in the structural soundness of the model to properly predict future performance. The model was then used to conduct what-if analyses to debottleneck operations, evaluation and compare alternatives, and optimize the overall expansion plan in terms of logistical capability, capital effectiveness, operational efficiency, and timing of investments and operations changes. Requirement for rolling stock inventories, track layouts, rail service schedules, stockpile and silo capacities, number of shiploaders and loading rates, number of berths, and number of railcar dumpers for each phase of the expansion were determined. For each scenario, a capital cost estimate was provided. The dynamic and constraint-based nature of simulation allowed for a realistic assessment of proposed future operations that greatly assisted in (1) determining the requirements necessary to support phased production increases, (2) debottlenecking current operations, and (3) optimizing capital effectiveness and operational efficiency of the overall expansion plan.
